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Introduction to Window and Door hardware
Window and door hardware is an essential part of any security system, but can be easily overlooked by homeowners when selecting the windows or doors for their property.
So what do we mean by ‘window and door hardware?’
In short, the hardware is the component that connects the frame to the wall and provides secure opening, closing, and locking, for the purposes of security.
Hardware types vary depending on the application, and include cabin hooks, lock cylinders, hinges and hinge restrictor stays, latches, handles, knockers, letterplates and spyholes….., to name just a few! At Edge Building Products, we stock a range of all the above.
In this blog we will look at the range of hardware available so that you are fully armed with all the important details when it comes to helping your clients select the right door and window hardware.
What are the different types of window and door hardware available?
Cabin Hooks are used to connect the window or door to a frame, keeping it securely closed. These can also be used to hook back doors or windows to keep them open and to stop them slamming.
Cabin hooks come in different shapes and sizes and can be made from materials such as steel, brass, or zinc-plated iron. The hook portion of the cabin hook is usually curved with a flat end so it can easily fit through the eye of the latch. These hooks have a spring-loaded latch on one side that allows users to open and close the window or door without having to move the hook itself. Cabin hooks are often seen in bathrooms, kitchens and bedrooms as they provide the light security needed. They are also ideal for applications such as barns, sheds and other outdoor buildings where traditional locks may not be desired or necessary. Edge BP offers a variety of [cabin locks] in black, brass and chrome from 150mm to 250mm in length and in a variety of widths.
Lock cylinders are an important security feature which are used in locks to provide additional layers of protection against entry to a property. They are typically made from brass, aluminium or steel and feature a cylindrical design that enables the lock cylinder to be inserted into the corresponding lock mechanism.
These are designed so that a key must be used to unlock the door. Additionally, many lock cylinders also feature anti-drill, anti-pick and anti-bump measures, making them even more secure than standalone lock mechanisms. Additionally, some models offer rekeyable features that allow the user to change the key and code without having to replace the entire locking system, which can be costly. Lock cylinders offer homeowners peace of mind and assurance that their property is safe and secure against potential intruders. We sell a variety of sizes of nickel [Euro Cylinders.]
Hinges are an essential component of door and window hardware, providing support and flexibility for the movement of these elements. There are a variety of hinge types available depending on the size, weight, and material of the door or window frame. For residential purposes, self-closing hinges provide convenience when entering and exiting your home. Edge stock a variety of [Versa hinges] to fit almost any size door.
Hinge restrictors are also used to secure glazing systems, limiting the amount of movement in a certain direction. These components can be configured with manual or automatic locking mechanisms to provide further security and protection from forced entry. For commercial applications such as hospitals, fire safety restrictors can be used to ensure that doors close promptly when activated by smoke alarms or other emergency signals.
By considering all the necessary factors related to hinges and hinge restrictors when purchasing doors and windows, you can ensure that your glazing system is reliable and secure.
Other types of door & window hardware
The window and door hardware that may be more familiar to your clients is that of handles, knockers, letter plates and spyholes, rather than the more intricate details above that you will more than likely already be well versed in.
These elements provide finishing touches to your clients’ homes or commercial premises. Spy holes are popular for providing that additional feeling of ‘safety’ for your clients, and as the name implies, enables homeowners to spy (using one eye) on their visitor through a tiny hole. We stock a variety of spyhole viewers available in white, chrome, black and brass along with both 10mm and 20mm spyhole extensions.
Depending on the door your client chooses, it may or may not come with knockers, and although some may argue knockers are slightly outdated (in an era of ring and video doorbells!), for many they offer the aesthetic finish that many modern doorbells do not. With this in mind, we stock a collection of classic Victorian style, Face Fix knockers which come with matching bolts and washers in black, chrome gold and white finishes.
We also stock a range of Espag window handles all of which are lockable, each available with 5 magnetic spindles which remove the need to cut spindles down on site.
In addition to window and door hardware, we stock a variety of Composite and PVC Doors which include locking systems and that may be available on a bespoke basis. We are also proud to partner with Origin, who provide many of our door and window hardware ranges. For bespoke enquiries, please do email us on [email protected] or if you aren’t able to find what you’re looking for, please do visit our website.
Having secure locking, fastening and functional doors and windows is integral to any building whether it is residential or commercial. There are many components that help ensure these are secure, as we’ve covered in this blog. With a mixture of door and window hardware, you will be able to help guide your clients to purchase products for their homes to ensure they sleep soundly at night, safe in the knowledge that their property is secure.
Edge Building Products have three trade counters across the South East; Horsham, Chichester and Croydon. You can sign up for a trade account via our website at www.edgebp.co.uk. Our team are also available should you have any queries about any of the door or window hardware that features in this blog. We are contactable on 0345 021 3333 or via email at [email protected]